. Israel’s security cabinet has approved a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, aiming to conclude a 15-month conflict in Gaza. The deal, mediated by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, is set to commence on Sunday, contingent upon final government approval.
ELHUFFPOST
Key Components of the Agreement:
Hostage and Prisoner Exchange: In the initial six-week phase, Hamas will release 33 Israeli hostages, including women, children, and men over 50. In return, Israel will free hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
AP NEWS
Ceasefire Implementation: The truce is scheduled to begin on Sunday, with Israeli forces gradually withdrawing from central Gaza. This will allow displaced Palestinians to return to their homes in northern Gaza.
SKY NEWS
Humanitarian Aid: The agreement facilitates a significant increase in humanitarian assistance to Gaza, addressing critical shortages of food, medicine, and shelter.
BBC
International Reactions:
United Nations: Secretary-General António Guterres has urged Israel to cease operations in Lebanon, highlighting violations of a UN resolution.
AP NEWS
United States: President Joe Biden expressed optimism, stating, “We are now very close” to reaching a deal and that hostages could be home soon.
THE TIMES OF ISRAEL
France: President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that two French-Israeli nationals are among the first hostages to be released.
AP NEWS
Domestic Considerations:
Within Israel, the agreement has prompted mixed reactions. Some right-wing factions express concern that the deal may not fully achieve the objective of dismantling Hamas’s capabilities. Despite this, a majority of ministers are expected to support the agreement, recognizing its potential to alleviate the humanitarian crisis and pave the way for long-term stability in the region.
US NEWS
Next Steps:
The full Israeli cabinet is anticipated to ratify the agreement shortly. Upon approval, the ceasefire will take effect, initiating the phased release of hostages and prisoners, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the influx of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Subsequent negotiations will focus on the release of remaining hostages, a full Israeli troop withdrawal, and the reconstruction of Gaza, supervised by Egypt, Qatar, and the UN.
BBC
Israel and Hamas Approve Ceasefire Agreement
AP News
Middle East latest: Israeli security cabinet recommends approving ceasefire deal
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The Times & The Sunday Times
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ElHuffPost
El Gabinete de Seguridad de Israel da luz verde a la tregua, a falta de la vota
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Sources